Neck injury: Fears for Williams' career

The player's club, the Cardiff Blues have confirmed, and the Welsh Rugby Union confirmed that Williams has "significant" neck and spinal injuries - sustained during the inaugural World Club 10s in Singapore.

Williams was hurt on Sunday, while playing for the Blues in a third-place play-off match, but the club waited until Wednesday to confirm his injuries.

The club said in a statement that Williams has suffered a "significant injury to his cervical vertebrae and spinal cord".

"He underwent an operation on Monday to stabilise a fracture and is currently recovering in hospital in Singapore," the club said.

"The family of Owen Williams are now at his bedside along with senior Blues management and medical staff.

"Arrangements are currently being made to co-ordinate his safe transfer home at an appropriate time."

The 22-year-old Williams, a former sevens international, made his debut for Wales a year ago in Japan, and played the last of his four Tests against Australia in November.

The Welsh Rugby Union joined with hundreds of well-wishers in offering a message of support to Williams.

"The WRU will continue to liaise closely with the Cardiff Blues whose management are in close contact with Owen, his family and medical staff in Singapore," the WRU statement said.